Rugby Union: Paul John has joined Cardiff Blues as backs coach

Former Wales international Paul John has been named the new backs coach of Cardiff Blues.

Last Updated: 07/01/14 1:41pm

Paul John: Delighted to take up Blues' offer

John, who was capped 10 times as a scrum-half - including one as captain against Canada in 1997 - will combine his position with his current coaching role at Pontypridd RFC but will stand down as head coach of Wales Sevens.

The 45-year-old has been instrumental in bringing a number of players from the Sevens set-up through to full honours including Alex Cuthbert, Rhys Patchell and Lloyd Williams.

In a statement on Blues' website, Cardiff Director of Rugby Phil Davies said: "We conducted an extensive worldwide search for our new backs coach and had some outstanding candidates.

"However, we had a person on our doorstep that was the perfect fit, an international coach who led Wales to World Cup success.

"Paul has done a truly fantastic job at Pontypridd. He has built great relationships and been a real mentor for young players with his skill development. The young backs that we have at Blues will benefit from those qualities and he will develop them.

Delighted

"We are delighted that he has come on board and he will be a real asset to the Blues. Our thanks go to the WRU and Pontypridd for their support and understanding in this matter."

John, who led Wales to victory in the Sevens World Cup final of 2009, said: "The last six years working at the WRU have been the most challenging and rewarding of my rugby career.

"It's been a brilliant environment to be part of and all members of the Wales Sevens management team have been a particular joy to work with. For that reason I certainly wasn't looking to leave and it has been a very difficult decision to make.

"However, I know Phil Davies and obviously worked closely with Dale McIntosh for a very long time, which has made the option more of a realistic possibility.

"Coaching the Blues will certainly be a challenge but on reflection it was a decision I felt I could live to regret if I didn't make the move."